Football’s governing body, FIFA, has announced that the Women’s World Cup will be expanded to 48 teams from its 2031 edition. Currently 32 teams participated in the quadrennial tournament.
The 48 participating teams will be split into 12 groups of four teams each. The number of matches in the tournament will increase to 104. This format has also been adopted for the men’s World Cup beginning next year. While the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil will still host 32 teams, the increase in participating nations from 2031 aims to further globalize and strengthen women’s football.
“This isn’t just about adding more teams, It is about continuing to develop women’s football in a holistic way and giving more FIFA member associations a chance to grow their programs.” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on the development.
Also Read: FIFA Confirms Eight Host Cities In Brazil For 2027 Women’s World Cup
The United States of America, which will be co-hosting the men’s World Cup next year along with Canada and Mexico, has bid to host the 2031 edition of the women’s World Cup. The country had previously hosted the women’s World Cup in 1999 and 2003. The United Kingdom has placed a bid to host the 2035 edition of the women’s World Cup.
“This decision ensures we are maintaining the momentum in terms of growing women’s football globally.” Infantino added.
The idea to have more teams at the World Cup has got support of the football players’ union FIFPRO. The union sees this a sign of the sport’s progress.
“This move must go hand in hand with meaningful support for players and the broader women’s football ecosystem,” FIFPRO said.
Brazil to host the 2027 women’s World Cup
The move to expand the women’s World Cup and make it a 48-team event comes just days after FIFA announced the eight host cities of the 2027 World Cup which will be played in Brazil. Belo Horizonte, Brasília, Fortaleza, Porto Alegre, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and and São Paulo are the cities that will be holding the matches for the World Cup.
Prakhar Sachdeo
The Sportz Planet Desk
